St. Charles Borromeo Parish
Legislative Advocacy Coalition

  
 St. Charles has an outstanding history of ministry to the poor that spans its almost 50 years of existence.  We have parishioners serving members of St. Charles and our extended community in a multitude of ways.  We have excelled at the facet of social ministry that strives to meet the needs of the individual.  However, what many of the poor and disenfranchised lack, beyond the physical necessities, is a voice to speak to those in a position of power that can institute systemic change.

    This year (2003) we have created a means by which the concerns of justice, equality and dignity have not only a voice but also the volume to reach the ears of  legislators, community leaders and even our own family.  Our group for legislative advocacy is not to be composed of politically savvy organizers or banner-waving protestors (though both are naturally welcome), it is composed of those who desire to be more socially conscious and those who believe they can work effectively with the system to change the system.

    Annually we will schedule an afternoon of workshops over practical aspects of working toward change: an explanation of the legislative process on both the state and the federal level, effective letter-writing and phone techniques and an overview of upcoming legislation concerning issues of social justice.  The speakers will be experts in these areas, you need not be, nor do you need feel that by participation in the workshops you will be committing to the legislative advocacy group - though we do hope you will leave informed and inspired.

    You are invited to be a part of a new vision for this parish.  We would like you to explore this possibility of ministry.  Below you will find two ministry descriptions: one is for our core team and the other is for our advocates.  Please read over the material, think and pray about your possible involvement and then please contact the parish office (405-789-2595) to indicate if you wish to participate in an informal workshop or begin immediately as one of our advocates for the poor.

Core Team Description                             Advocate Description

"The joys and the hopes, the griefs and the anxieties of the people of this age, especially those who are poor or in any way afflicted, these too are the joys and hopes, the griefs and anxieties of the followers of Christ." 
    - The Second Vatican Council (1965)